GlassBuild 2023 was an expansive, up-close look at our industry and its innovations! The 20th anniversary featured a rodeo theme – a nod to the location of next year’s show in Dallas. With that theme in mind, I wanted to offer some post-show cowboy wisdom for those planning for next year in Texas.

Always drink upstream from the herd

We were all cowboys this year at GlassBuild America 2023! We were committed, worked hard and made a great show happen again! Like a cowboy with a good hat, GlassBuild has become a trusted name in our industry. We have taken the past, mixed it together for the present, and next year we will keep making more fun memories.

A little bit of the past: If you climb in the saddle, be ready for the ride.

It’s been that long?! I saw someone at the show whom I have not seen for over 11 years! What a pleasant surprise! Things have really changed since then, but there we both were, riding right along the show floor and ready for anything, including seeing the latest products from FGIA members like Quanex’s new security screen and Deceuninck’s new ECLIPSE product for windows and doors. What a ride!

A bit of the present: “True cowboys are the ones who aren’t afraid to get dirty.” ~ Lane Frost

There was a buzz in the air in the mornings just before the show started. Exhibitors were ready to face the day, knowing that every clip, plug and carpet edge was in the correct spot. More often than not, the ones who worked hard setting up their booth were the same people who were greeting potential customers on the show floor each day. Down and dirty, these members created the perfect vibe at the show, and all of FGIA’s member booths were impressive and so well designed.

A bright future: Not squatting with spurs on.

This has me looking forward to the future and wondering what all these cowboys are going to make Dallas look like a year from now! For those preparing for the 21st anniversary of GlassBuild in 2024, keep in mind that FGIA members get a discount on the cost of your booth space at GlassBuild – a valuable aspect of your membership.

I want to thank the FGIA members who hosted FGIA staff at GlassBuild! We had a great time celebrating new products and existing relationships at the Vitro, YKK AP and Deceuninck receptions, and it was a joy to see so many members stop by the booth to say Hello! Thank you again!